Planting Trees in Winter: Benefits, Best Practices, and What to Avoid
Planting trees often evokes spring and greenery. You may not have known that winter is the ideal time to plant trees. Planting trees in the winter months can have unique benefits. This is especially true for areas such as the South and Southeast.
1. Winter is the Best Time to Be Dormant Trees go dormant during winter.
The trees’ growth will be dramatically reduced. This rest period allows the trees’ roots to take priority over top growth. The trees can get an early start on spring.
2. Reduce stress, get more
Trees that are planted in the winter will be less likely to experience transplant shock because of the cooler temperatures and less sunlight. The tree will conserve moisture and energy by evaporating less water.
3. Bare Root Season
Planting bare-roots trees in the winter is the best option, as they are easier to transport and cheaper than those grown in containers. The trees are delivered without soil, and they must be planted during the winter.
4. Understanding the soil conditions is important
It is beneficial to plant in the winter, but avoid planting on frozen or wet soil. Choose a day that is suitable to dig, and ensure the hole will be large enough for the roots.
5. Select the Right Species
Planting deciduous trees such as oaks, maples and elms in winter is the best option. Evergreens can suffer cold-desiccation in harsh winters.
6. Mulch and Water Wisely
Apply a thick layer after planting to regulate soil temperature and retain moisture. Water the trees if they are too dry during winter. This is especially true after planting.
Planting trees during winter helps you prepare for spring by preparing your landscape. Your new trees can thrive in warmer temperatures if you prepare them properly. Plant with gloves.
This post was written by a professional arborist at Tree Removal St Petersburg FL. Robert Miller is the owner of Arbor Wise Professional Tree Care, a locally owned and operated tree service company that offers superb lawn care by the most experienced Arborists. Arborwise Tree Services is a tree removal company that offers stump removal, tree pruning, stump grinding, fertilization, and tree restoration. We have an extraordinary lawn care industry notoriety covering the Pinellas county area.
